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Why Do Teenagers Go for Invisalign?
Teenage years may be the most insecure years of a person’s life, and it’s no wonder that teenagers are extra self-conscious when it comes to their appearances. The pressure to look good is enough of a struggle without adding clunky metal braces into the mix. Many teenagers over the decades have chosen to forego straightening altogether as they would rather have crooked teeth than the dreaded “metal mouth” which can lead to bullying and unflattering Instagram photos.
Luckily, Invisalign has allowed teenagers to straighten their teeth without their peers even noticing. Invisalign is a teeth straightening treatment which uses clear plastic trays to give patients the results they desire instead of traditional metal aligners. We have listed just some of the reasons for which this clear straightening method is the better choice if your teenager needs to get their teeth straightened.
1. Virtually Invisible
These clear plastic trays are virtually invisible, allowing patients to smile widely without anyone noticing that they are undergoing teeth straightening at all. Additionally, the trays can be taken out at any time for important photo sessions and social events.
2. Advanced Technology
The technology used to create the these trays is much more advanced than that of traditional metal aligners. Orthodontists use computer technology to create a three-dimensional image of your mouth, which can then create a series of plastic aligners which straighten your teeth gradually. This advanced and detailed process means that orthodontists can use this computer technology to make nuanced adjustments to your teeth before the trays even get produced. Therefore, this process can target and straighten specific problem teeth individually, whereas traditional metal aligners cannot.
The way in which these plastic aligners are designed also allows patients to correct bite issues without the use of annoying rubber bands.
3. Easily Removable
Another aspect that deters teenagers from opting for traditional metal aligners is the fact that they are restricted when it comes to the food which they can eat while wearing metal aligners. Favorites like pizza and candy are strictly forbidden as they can get stuck in the metal and lead to cavities. Luckily, plastic aligners allow patients to eat whatever they want because the trays can be easily and painlessly removed when it’s time to eat. In other words, patients can enjoy their favorite foods without the negative consequences associated with traditional metal aligners.
4. Easy To Maintain Dental Hygiene Habits
Another benefit of the removable aspect of these clear aligners is that patients can brush and floss their teeth while the trays are out. Because traditional metal aligners cover up a large amount of tooth surface, it’s easy for teeth to discolor and turn yellow over time. Maintaining a healthy dental hygiene regimen is a challenge with traditional metal aligners and adequate flossing is next to impossible. Patients who use these removable plastic aligners are at a lower risk for tooth decay as well as discolored teeth.
5. Quicker Straightening Process
Patients are also relieved to learn that they will not need to use these aligners for as long as they would need to use traditional metal aligners. Whereas the latter can take up to two years to reach the desired results of straightening, these plastic aligners can take as little as six months. Teenagers who are uneasy about the commitment of straightening their teeth are pleased to learn that this process is a much lower level of commitment.
6. Easy To Use
When your orthodontist has your trays in the office for you, he or she will give you all the trays at once to take home. Each tray is numbered, and every one or two weeks you will switch out the tray for a new one. With traditional braces, frequent orthodontist visits are required for tightening the metal wire. However, with plastic aligners you will only need to visit your orthodontist occasionally to make sure that your teeth are being straightened correctly.
7. More Freedom To Enjoy Your Hobbies
Metal aligners can get in the way of numerous activities which teenagers love. Teens who love sports have to be extra careful that they are not hit in the mouth with a ball or puck as this can cause damage to the metal. Activities like singing and playing wind instruments can be more of a challenge due to the excess metal in a teenager’s mouth. With plastic aligners, however, all of these activities can be enjoyed just as much as they were prior to undergoing the straightening process.
8. More Comfortable
Many patients with traditional metal aligners never quite get used to the feeling of having all that metal in their mouth. The experience can be very painful and uncomfortable overall, especially when getting them routinely tightened. Plastic aligners are much more comfortable, and while teeth may be a bit sore on the day that a new tray is switched out, overall pain and discomfort is kept to a minimum.
There are countless reasons for teenagers to opt for Invisalign over traditional braces. Aside from the physical appearance benefits, teenagers who opt for clear aligners may continue to participate in their favorite activities, enjoy their favorite foods and maintain proper oral hygiene with ease.
Call Our Orthodontic Office Today
At Tisseront Orthodontics in Reston, Va., Dr. Stephan Tisseront offers examinations for children, teenagers and adults. There are several types of treatment available, including:
• Metal brackets and wires
• Color-matching brackets and invisible wires
• Clear plastic aligners made by Invisalign
• Retainers that are worn after orthodontic treatment ends
• Brackets and wires worn on the backs of your teeth
We offer a free consultation after your examination to discuss other orthodontic treatment options such as the Acceledent Aura device. Call us today at 703-773-1200 to schedule an appointment.
